Virginia · 2026 Regular Session · Bill
HB 899: Small renewable energy projects; agrivoltaics definition, advisory panel.
In committee Official data
- Introduced
- In committee
- Passed one chamber
- Passed both chambers
- Enacted
Last official action: ·Record last updated:
Plain-language summary
HB 899 is a bill introduced in the Virginia House on January 13, 2026. According to its official title, it concerns: Small renewable energy projects; agrivoltaics definition, advisory panel. Primary sponsor: Irene Shin (Democratic). Most recent recorded action (February 5, 2026): Incorporated by Labor and Commerce (HB508-McAuliff) (Voice Vote).
Generated automatically from the official title, sponsor list, and status record only. It does not characterize the bill’s purpose or effects. How summaries are written
Official summary
Abstract published by the legislature (via Open States). Text as published by the legislature; reproduced verbatim.
Small renewable energy projects; agrivoltaics definition; advisory panel. Defines under the provisions relating to small renewable energy projects the term "agrivoltaics" to mean the intentional co-location of agricultural production and solar energy generation on the same land that (i) is designed to prioritize and sustain agricultural productivity while integrating renewable energy; (ii) allows the ongoing production and sale of agricultural products throughout the solar array's life; (iii) is a part of an existing farm business; and (iv) ensures flexibility for farmers to adapt to market conditions and support operational needs. The bill also directs the Virginia Cooperative Extension, in consultation with the Department of Energy, to convene a stakeholder advisory panel to develop recommendations to (i) establish criteria to determine qualifying agrivoltaic projects that are eligible for grant funding through the Virginia Power Innovation Fund and Program, (ii) identify how to monitor and sustain the integrity of agrivoltaic projects, and (iii) consider permitting or provide other incentives that may be effective in promoting agrivoltaic projects in the Commonwealth. The bill directs the stakeholder advisory panel to submit a report on its recommendations to the Secretaries of Agriculture and Forestry and Natural and Historic Resources by November 1, 2026.
Sponsors
Sponsors by party (alphabetical): Democratic 1
| Name | Role | Party | Chamber | District |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Irene Shin | Primary sponsor | Democratic | House | 8 |
“Support” is shown only as formal sponsorship recorded by the legislature. Roll-call votes are available on the official bill page.
Recent official actions
- Incorporated by Labor and Commerce (HB508-McAuliff) (Voice Vote)
- Subcommittee recommends incorporating (Voice Vote)
- Assigned HCL sub: Subcommittee #3
- Fiscal Impact Statement from Department of Planning and Budget (HB899)
- Referred from Agriculture, Chesapeake and Natural Resources and referred to Labor and Commerce (Voice Vote)
- Assigned HACNR sub: Natural Resources
- Referred to Committee on Agriculture, Chesapeake and Natural Resources
- Prefiled and ordered printed; Offered 01-14-2026 26102682D